speedwell crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a crossword and the clue "speedwell crossword" has you stumped, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you across the finish line.
Solutions for "speedwell crossword" by Letter Count
8 Letters
VERONICA: The botanical genus name for the speedwell plant, commonly used in crosswords.
6 Letters
FLOWER: A general term for blooming plants, which speedwell is.
5 Letters
PLANT: A broad classification that includes speedwell.
4 Letters
WEED: Some varieties of speedwell are considered invasive weeds.
More About "speedwell crossword"
Speedwell is a fascinating plant that often appears in crossword puzzles due to its diverse nature and common names. Belonging to the genus Veronica, speedwell encompasses a wide range of species, from delicate groundcovers with tiny blue flowers to more upright varieties. These plants are native to many parts of the world and are admired for their charming blooms, which often appear in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white.
In crosswords, "speedwell" can be clued in several ways, reflecting its botanical name, its general classification, or even its perceived status as an undesirable plant in gardens. The most common answer, VERONICA, directly refers to its scientific genus, making it a popular choice for setters aiming for a more specific botanical reference. Other clues might focus on its appearance as a small flowering plant or, ironically, its tendency to spread rapidly, leading to answers like WEED.
Understanding these different facets of speedwell can significantly aid in solving related crossword clues. Whether you're a gardener, a botanist, or just a crossword enthusiast, the versatility of "speedwell" in puzzles makes it a rich subject for wordplay and general knowledge alike.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Botanical Names: For clues related to plants or animals, always think if the scientific or common genus name could be the answer, especially for longer letter counts like VERONICA for speedwell.
- Think Broad Categories: If a specific answer doesn't fit, consider what broader category the subject falls into. For "speedwell," this could be FLOWER or PLANT, offering shorter solutions.
- Explore Dual Meanings/Contexts: Some clues have surprising alternative meanings or associations. Speedwell, for instance, can also be a WEED, offering a different angle for shorter answers. Always consider all possible interpretations of the clue.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities. This is crucial when multiple answers of the same length exist for a clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of plant is speedwell?
Speedwell refers to a genus of flowering plants, Veronica, known for their small, often blue, four-petaled flowers. They are found worldwide and belong to the plantain family (Plantaginaceae).
Why is 'speedwell' a common crossword clue?
Speedwell is a popular crossword clue due to its distinctive common name, its botanical genus name (Veronica), and its dual nature as both an ornamental garden plant and sometimes a pervasive weed. This versatility allows for different answer lengths and contexts, making it a favorite for setters.
Are all speedwell flowers blue?
While many common speedwell varieties are famous for their vibrant blue flowers, which give them names like 'Bird's-eye Speedwell' or 'Common Speedwell', some species can also have white, pink, or purple blooms. The characteristic four-lobed flower shape remains consistent.